Expert: Daniel Mazur - 10/19/2008

Question
hello

when I was study engineer I was too proficient in math,physics,mechanics sciences also design theories more than practical applications using my hand or any body effort specially that my health is too weak , I like planning for something more than executions moreover I m someone who live in imaginations & contemplations , searching for truth , meaning , create solutions , results , deductions for anything happening around him

I had bachelor degree in engineer of electronics & communication but I didnt work in practical form as using tools live avometer , some other equipmetns

I have goods abilities in analyze , deduce , studying

so as you a scientist , is the above abilities may qualify me to be researcher , if yes or no so whats the qualification must I have to be a researcher ???????

wish to hear from you soon
thanks

Answer
Hi,
your liking in search for truth, deeper meanings, solutions and results is certainly essential for scientists. Being proficient in maths, science is also important. Practical hands-on work is important for experimental science, which is most of it, but there is also theoretical and computational science, where manual skills are not as crucial.
To be a scientist one must submit to a scientific (maths, physics, chemistry, biology) Master and/or Ph.D. program. That can take 5-7 years of study, afterward, you are a scientist. Apart from the talents you have being a scientist requires the ability to discipline your mind (e.g. in physics there are underlying laws of nature, which cannot be broken down) and to put in enough hard work. If you are not completely unlucky, you will be able to make a research career. I should say though that engineering also has research and development branch and you can as well stay in electronic engineering and pursue a research career. Perhaps engineering doesn't offer much search of deeper meaning, but it can be as satisfying, if you like it.
I hope this helps you. Ask again, if needed.
Cheers,
Daniel